Koh Samui is blessed with quite a few spectacular waterfalls; however there are only two that are easily accessed and having good facilities. They are Hin Lad and Namuang. The best time to see any of the falls on Koh Samui is during or just after the rainy season, approximately September to March. If not at these times, there may not be enough of a water flow to make the trip worthwhile.

Hin Lad is approximately three kilometers from Nathon, due west off route 4172. The signposts are well marked. You will need to hike down a two kilometer trail, at times a little challenging, but the pool at the bottom of the falls is worth it. Make sure you have good footwear for this trail.

Namuang is actually two different waterfalls, Namuang 1 and Namuang 2. Namuang 1 is 18 meters high and just off the main road, easily accessible by car. Here you will find a beautiful swimming hole at the base of the waterfall. Good footwear should be worn as it can get slippery on the rocks. As with any swimming area, please use extreme caution if you chose to dive.

Namuang 2 is about 80 meters tall and is a little bit more difficult to get to than Namuang 1. Unless you can find the road that will take you about 1/3 of the way up, you will have to hike up from the main road for about 30 minutes. The first little bit seems tough, but it does get easier. If there is enough water, these falls are beautiful and well worth the trip. You will need good shoes for this one.

source: Koh Samui Website

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Koh Samui is blessed with quite a few spectacular waterfalls; however there are only two that are easily accessed and having good facilities. They are Hin Lad and Namuang. The best time to see any of the falls on Koh Samui is during or just after the rainy season, approximately September to March. If not at these times, there may not be enough of a water flow to make the trip worthwhile.

Hin Lad is approximately three kilometers from Nathon, due west off route 4172. The signposts are well marked. You will need to hike down a two kilometer trail, at times a little challenging, but the pool at the bottom of the falls is worth it. Make sure you have good footwear for this trail.

Namuang is actually two different waterfalls, Namuang 1 and Namuang 2. Namuang 1 is 18 meters high and just off the main road, easily accessible by car. Here you will find a beautiful swimming hole at the base of the waterfall. Good footwear should be worn as it can get slippery on the rocks. As with any swimming area, please use extreme caution if you chose to dive.

Namuang 2 is about 80 meters tall and is a little bit more difficult to get to than Namuang 1. Unless you can find the road that will take you about 1/3 of the way up, you will have to hike up from the main road for about 30 minutes. The first little bit seems tough, but it does get easier. If there is enough water, these falls are beautiful and well worth the trip. You will need good shoes for this one.

source: Koh Samui Website

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Overview

Chiang Mai is the country's second largest city of Thailand, it located at north of Thailand and far from Bangkok 700 kilometer by car. The populations of Chiang Mai are more than 1,500,000 peoples. Chiang Mai is the ancient city which has magic power that can attract people for visiting. At the city have temple more than 300 temples in which some Burmese architectural influence can be seen. It a cosmopolitan place with a well developed infrastructure for tourist such as center for arts, crafts, cooking, massage and surrounding by hill tribe.

Thai people well know Chiang Mai as the Kingdom of Lanna. You can notice from their language, house, local food and costume.

What to do

- Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep
The famous and important temple of Chiang Mai is Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep which built in 1383 B.E. The tourists can look over the city from view point by walk along the steep naga staircase around 300 steps. Once you rech you will see a huge golden pagoda (chedi), ring the bell, pay respect to holy Buddha’s relics that attract all devotees around the world.

A walk around the grounds reveals a variety of colorful and fragrant flowers, and murals that depict Buddha's previous lives. Every year Chiang Mai’s people will celebrate Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep at night by walk from Chiang Mai University to temple which far from here about 9 kilometers and take about 2-3 hours.
Open Hours: 8 a.m. - 5 p.m., Monday to Saturday
Location: From the end of Huay Keaw Road and continue about 9 kilometers northwest of Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, 50300 Thailand

- Chiang Mai Zoo
Chiang Mai Zoo was open on 1995, founded by Mr.Harold M. Young, an American missionary. He kept some wild animals at the foothill of Suthep Mountain to be private zoo. Now Chiang Mai Zoo has 7,000 wild animals and covers the area of 531 rai (1 rai = 2/5 acre). And new popular animal is panda from China; they lend us a couple of panda for 10 years from 2004 to 2014.

- Wat Chedi Luang
This temple was built in 14th century and located at center city. It’s well-known because of its enormous chedi, which is measured at 282 feet high and 144 feet wide (at the base), that it is considered to be the largest chedi in Chiang Mai.

- Central Airport Plaza
This mall is a bit smaller than Kad Suan Keow but still offers great shopping which teenage like to go there. All shops here are familiar names like Watson, Esprit, The Body Shop and Export Shop. At tenants zone you can find many things such as wine, eyeglasses, jewelry, phones, appliances and sporting goods etc.

Opening hours: 11.00a.m.-10p.m.on Monday to Friday
9.30a.m.-10p.m. on Saturday and Sunday.
Location: 2 Mahidol (Highway 1141), Chiang Mai, 50100 near Chiang Mai Air Port.

Nightlife

- Night Bazaar
Night Bazaar is located on Chang Klan Road, a shopper’s paradise place, with many shops along two side roads. The street stalls sell a variety of items, including fine Thai silk, antiques, silver, clothing, handicrafts, CDs, videos, perfumes and watches. This is an exciting area for shopping and also there are plenty of places to eat and drink.
Open Hours: 6.00p.m.to midnight, Monday to Sunday.
Location: 104-1 Chang Klan Road, Chiang Mai, 50100 Thailand

- The Red Lion English Pub & Restaurant
A firm favorite with locals and tourists alike, The Red Lion open more than fifth year has features an air-conditioned bar as well as a pleasant terrace over-looking the vibrant Chiang Mai Night Bazaar.
Location: The heart of the famous Chiang Mai night bazaar in a quiet lane opposite the car-park of Mc Donald's.

- The Pub
An old English Pub and best pub of Chiang Mai has been here for decades.
Location: 189 Huay Keow Road
Tel: (053)211550

- Sax Music Pub Jazz and Art
It’s a small Pub by the Taphae gate. Good sax music and a friendly client
Location: 35/2 MoonMuang Rd.
Tel: (053)216073
http://www.lifeevents.org/photos/200401-Sax%20Pub/

How to go

You can go to Chiang Mai by car, train and air.

Read More...

Overview

Chiang Mai is the country's second largest city of Thailand, it located at north of Thailand and far from Bangkok 700 kilometer by car. The populations of Chiang Mai are more than 1,500,000 peoples. Chiang Mai is the ancient city which has magic power that can attract people for visiting. At the city have temple more than 300 temples in which some Burmese architectural influence can be seen. It a cosmopolitan place with a well developed infrastructure for tourist such as center for arts, crafts, cooking, massage and surrounding by hill tribe.

Thai people well know Chiang Mai as the Kingdom of Lanna. You can notice from their language, house, local food and costume.

What to do

- Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep
The famous and important temple of Chiang Mai is Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep which built in 1383 B.E. The tourists can look over the city from view point by walk along the steep naga staircase around 300 steps. Once you rech you will see a huge golden pagoda (chedi), ring the bell, pay respect to holy Buddha’s relics that attract all devotees around the world.

A walk around the grounds reveals a variety of colorful and fragrant flowers, and murals that depict Buddha's previous lives. Every year Chiang Mai’s people will celebrate Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep at night by walk from Chiang Mai University to temple which far from here about 9 kilometers and take about 2-3 hours.
Open Hours: 8 a.m. - 5 p.m., Monday to Saturday
Location: From the end of Huay Keaw Road and continue about 9 kilometers northwest of Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, 50300 Thailand

- Chiang Mai Zoo
Chiang Mai Zoo was open on 1995, founded by Mr.Harold M. Young, an American missionary. He kept some wild animals at the foothill of Suthep Mountain to be private zoo. Now Chiang Mai Zoo has 7,000 wild animals and covers the area of 531 rai (1 rai = 2/5 acre). And new popular animal is panda from China; they lend us a couple of panda for 10 years from 2004 to 2014.

- Wat Chedi Luang
This temple was built in 14th century and located at center city. It’s well-known because of its enormous chedi, which is measured at 282 feet high and 144 feet wide (at the base), that it is considered to be the largest chedi in Chiang Mai.

- Central Airport Plaza
This mall is a bit smaller than Kad Suan Keow but still offers great shopping which teenage like to go there. All shops here are familiar names like Watson, Esprit, The Body Shop and Export Shop. At tenants zone you can find many things such as wine, eyeglasses, jewelry, phones, appliances and sporting goods etc.

Opening hours: 11.00a.m.-10p.m.on Monday to Friday
9.30a.m.-10p.m. on Saturday and Sunday.
Location: 2 Mahidol (Highway 1141), Chiang Mai, 50100 near Chiang Mai Air Port.

Nightlife

- Night Bazaar
Night Bazaar is located on Chang Klan Road, a shopper’s paradise place, with many shops along two side roads. The street stalls sell a variety of items, including fine Thai silk, antiques, silver, clothing, handicrafts, CDs, videos, perfumes and watches. This is an exciting area for shopping and also there are plenty of places to eat and drink.
Open Hours: 6.00p.m.to midnight, Monday to Sunday.
Location: 104-1 Chang Klan Road, Chiang Mai, 50100 Thailand

- The Red Lion English Pub & Restaurant
A firm favorite with locals and tourists alike, The Red Lion open more than fifth year has features an air-conditioned bar as well as a pleasant terrace over-looking the vibrant Chiang Mai Night Bazaar.
Location: The heart of the famous Chiang Mai night bazaar in a quiet lane opposite the car-park of Mc Donald's.

- The Pub
An old English Pub and best pub of Chiang Mai has been here for decades.
Location: 189 Huay Keow Road
Tel: (053)211550

- Sax Music Pub Jazz and Art
It’s a small Pub by the Taphae gate. Good sax music and a friendly client
Location: 35/2 MoonMuang Rd.
Tel: (053)216073
http://www.lifeevents.org/photos/200401-Sax%20Pub/

How to go

You can go to Chiang Mai by car, train and air.

Read More...

This traditional Thai custom of merry-making is the Kingdom's most 'sanuk' (fun-filled) festival, celebrated with tremendous enthusiasm, nation-wide, once a year. In most parts of the country, Songkran extends over a period of 3 days.

Known the world-over for its characteristic tradition of water-throwing ranging from a courteous sprinkle or a polite splash, to harmless water pistols and showers from garden hoses to the well-aimed bucket or water-cannon delivered in a festive spirit. Without a doubt, on the practical side, Songkran is a refreshing solution to "beating the heat" in the hottest season of the year. There is a however a much deeper significance to "Songkran".

Apart from marking a new beginning, Songkran is also a time for thanksgiving. It is an important time for individuals to reflect upon the many acts of kindness and thoughtfulness each has personally experienced and to remember how such acts of generosity and compassion bring peace, happiness and well-being. Songkran is also the time for reunions and family ties are renewed.

At the heart of each Thai custom and tradition, there is always a logical reason for its existence. The festive elements of the celebration, the cultural values, the social code of conduct and individual belief and practices are intertwined. Songkran embodies the traditional Thai cultural values.

The underlying significance of Songkran is the process of cleansing and purification - the purging of all ills, misfortune and evil and starting the New Year afresh with all that is good and pure. Water is symbolic of the cleaning process and signifies purity.

source: Thailand Grand Festival Website

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This traditional Thai custom of merry-making is the Kingdom's most 'sanuk' (fun-filled) festival, celebrated with tremendous enthusiasm, nation-wide, once a year. In most parts of the country, Songkran extends over a period of 3 days.

Known the world-over for its characteristic tradition of water-throwing ranging from a courteous sprinkle or a polite splash, to harmless water pistols and showers from garden hoses to the well-aimed bucket or water-cannon delivered in a festive spirit. Without a doubt, on the practical side, Songkran is a refreshing solution to "beating the heat" in the hottest season of the year. There is a however a much deeper significance to "Songkran".

Apart from marking a new beginning, Songkran is also a time for thanksgiving. It is an important time for individuals to reflect upon the many acts of kindness and thoughtfulness each has personally experienced and to remember how such acts of generosity and compassion bring peace, happiness and well-being. Songkran is also the time for reunions and family ties are renewed.

At the heart of each Thai custom and tradition, there is always a logical reason for its existence. The festive elements of the celebration, the cultural values, the social code of conduct and individual belief and practices are intertwined. Songkran embodies the traditional Thai cultural values.

The underlying significance of Songkran is the process of cleansing and purification - the purging of all ills, misfortune and evil and starting the New Year afresh with all that is good and pure. Water is symbolic of the cleaning process and signifies purity.

source: Thailand Grand Festival Website

Read More...

Bird Watching in Thailand: A Great Experience

Thailand is dominant in Southeast Asian birding. The abundance of tropical birds is unmatched by her neighboring countries. It's convenient and the birds are plentiful. Khao Sok National Park is certainly one of the best bird watching destination in southern Thailand. Marsh areas such as Thale Noi provide great birding for those interested in seeing water birds. Migratory shorebirds are easy to see from a kayak. The lush jungles, rainforests and marshes of southern Thailand offer birders with many marvelous opportunities.

Did you realize that there have been more than 970 species of birds recorded in Thailand? The number keeps growing as more and more birders search the land. At least 204 species of birds that have been recorded in Thailand’s mangrove forests alone!

source: Thailand Birding

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Bird Watching in Thailand: A Great Experience

Thailand is dominant in Southeast Asian birding. The abundance of tropical birds is unmatched by her neighboring countries. It's convenient and the birds are plentiful. Khao Sok National Park is certainly one of the best bird watching destination in southern Thailand. Marsh areas such as Thale Noi provide great birding for those interested in seeing water birds. Migratory shorebirds are easy to see from a kayak. The lush jungles, rainforests and marshes of southern Thailand offer birders with many marvelous opportunities.

Did you realize that there have been more than 970 species of birds recorded in Thailand? The number keeps growing as more and more birders search the land. At least 204 species of birds that have been recorded in Thailand’s mangrove forests alone!

source: Thailand Birding

Read More...

Hundreds of thousands of people of all ages thronged Beach Road last weekend for the Grand Pattaya International Music Festival 2006, the largest in the five consecutive years the event has been staged.
The return of the new style Tik Chiro.
On Friday March 17 at the Orange Stage set up at Soi 9, the official opening ceremony as conducted by Juthamas Siriwan, governor of the Tourism Authority of Thailand, Chonburi Governor Pisit Ketphasook, and Mayor Niran Watthanasartsathorn.
The music festival was organized by the Tourism Authority of Thailand, Chonburi Provincial Administration and Pattaya City Council, with help from Thailand’s music industry.
There were three stages set up along Beach Road to accommodate the three music giants taking part, GMM Grammy, RS Promotions, and Music Television Networks (Mtv), who each lined up their own star performers.
The Orange Stage at Soi 9 featured artists under the Mtv banner such as Clash, Body Slam, Thaitanium, and Blackhead. At the Yellow Stage on Soi 6 were artists under the GMM Grammy label including Mos Patipan, Paradox, Zeal, Ebola, Skalaxy and Ka La. The Green Stage near Bali Hai Pier featured artists under the RSS Promotions label with the likes of Dan-Beam, Gear Knight, James, CC Pu, and Dang Pankorn.
Beach Road was closed off to traffic from 5 p.m. each day, causing the inevitable congestion on other main roads and leading to some frantic rushing on foot to get to the stage where a favorite artiste was performing. Some also complained that the entrance to the stages, especially the Orange Stage, were too narrow resulting in people crushing up against each other. But at the end of the day it was music all the way, with the added sound of success providing sweet music for the tourist industry.
The overall atmosphere at the event was hectic with the many tourists visiting the event each day. On the final day, just before the concerts were about to get underway, it started to rain heavily throughout Pattaya which delayed the start by about an hour, but this didn’t dampen the crowds’ determination.
Over 400 stalls were spread along Beach Road from North Pattaya to South Pattaya. The stalls did brisk business, as they were no less busy than the actual concert, and were able to bring a large amount of income into the city. The best sellers were beverages – water and alcoholic beverages, with clothing and jewelry not far behind in terms of sales.
Police and volunteers from Banglamung were on hand providing tight security throughout the three days.
Rangsan Wajeesajja, assistant director of Tourism Authority of Thailand Region 3, said that over 400,000 music fans attended the event, generating more than a billion baht. Rangsan said 98 percent of the hotel rooms were booked up one week in advance. Rangsan went on to say that he hopes next year will be as successful as this year.

Source: Pattaya Mail

Read More...

Hundreds of thousands of people of all ages thronged Beach Road last weekend for the Grand Pattaya International Music Festival 2006, the largest in the five consecutive years the event has been staged.
The return of the new style Tik Chiro.
On Friday March 17 at the Orange Stage set up at Soi 9, the official opening ceremony as conducted by Juthamas Siriwan, governor of the Tourism Authority of Thailand, Chonburi Governor Pisit Ketphasook, and Mayor Niran Watthanasartsathorn.
The music festival was organized by the Tourism Authority of Thailand, Chonburi Provincial Administration and Pattaya City Council, with help from Thailand’s music industry.
There were three stages set up along Beach Road to accommodate the three music giants taking part, GMM Grammy, RS Promotions, and Music Television Networks (Mtv), who each lined up their own star performers.
The Orange Stage at Soi 9 featured artists under the Mtv banner such as Clash, Body Slam, Thaitanium, and Blackhead. At the Yellow Stage on Soi 6 were artists under the GMM Grammy label including Mos Patipan, Paradox, Zeal, Ebola, Skalaxy and Ka La. The Green Stage near Bali Hai Pier featured artists under the RSS Promotions label with the likes of Dan-Beam, Gear Knight, James, CC Pu, and Dang Pankorn.
Beach Road was closed off to traffic from 5 p.m. each day, causing the inevitable congestion on other main roads and leading to some frantic rushing on foot to get to the stage where a favorite artiste was performing. Some also complained that the entrance to the stages, especially the Orange Stage, were too narrow resulting in people crushing up against each other. But at the end of the day it was music all the way, with the added sound of success providing sweet music for the tourist industry.
The overall atmosphere at the event was hectic with the many tourists visiting the event each day. On the final day, just before the concerts were about to get underway, it started to rain heavily throughout Pattaya which delayed the start by about an hour, but this didn’t dampen the crowds’ determination.
Over 400 stalls were spread along Beach Road from North Pattaya to South Pattaya. The stalls did brisk business, as they were no less busy than the actual concert, and were able to bring a large amount of income into the city. The best sellers were beverages – water and alcoholic beverages, with clothing and jewelry not far behind in terms of sales.
Police and volunteers from Banglamung were on hand providing tight security throughout the three days.
Rangsan Wajeesajja, assistant director of Tourism Authority of Thailand Region 3, said that over 400,000 music fans attended the event, generating more than a billion baht. Rangsan said 98 percent of the hotel rooms were booked up one week in advance. Rangsan went on to say that he hopes next year will be as successful as this year.

Source: Pattaya Mail

Read More...

Its not too long ago when the “coffee culture” started to take a hold on Thailand. The arrival of Starbucks and other coffee chains like coffee world continued the trend. Today, Bangkok can compete with any other major city in terms of availability of coffee wherever you go.
One good example is the Cafe Lenotre which is located on in natural Ville on Lang Suan Road. Lang Suan Road runs from Lumphini Park to Sukhumvit and then Petchburi Road. For the ones who don’t know: Lemotre is a famous French chain that operates pastrys and bakeries all around the world. Their products are of an extremely high quality and also in Europe Lenotre is very popular.
As the name suggests already, Lenotre is a French pastry and bakery and of course coffe shop. It opens every day from 6 in the morning until 10:30 at night. The pastry is delicious and one can find several European favorites. Also, the coffe is very good giving guests a variety of coffees from around the world to choose from.
When you should have the chance and are in the near vicinity of Lumphini park then you should definitely try out this fantastic pastry and coffee shop.

Read More...

Its not too long ago when the “coffee culture” started to take a hold on Thailand. The arrival of Starbucks and other coffee chains like coffee world continued the trend. Today, Bangkok can compete with any other major city in terms of availability of coffee wherever you go.
One good example is the Cafe Lenotre which is located on in natural Ville on Lang Suan Road. Lang Suan Road runs from Lumphini Park to Sukhumvit and then Petchburi Road. For the ones who don’t know: Lemotre is a famous French chain that operates pastrys and bakeries all around the world. Their products are of an extremely high quality and also in Europe Lenotre is very popular.
As the name suggests already, Lenotre is a French pastry and bakery and of course coffe shop. It opens every day from 6 in the morning until 10:30 at night. The pastry is delicious and one can find several European favorites. Also, the coffe is very good giving guests a variety of coffees from around the world to choose from.
When you should have the chance and are in the near vicinity of Lumphini park then you should definitely try out this fantastic pastry and coffee shop.

Read More...

Chiang Mai Walk Street is located on Thaphae Gate through to Ratchadamnoen Road in Chiang Mai city, Thailand. The Chiang Mai Walk Street opens only in Sunday night.

The tourist can shop local product of Chiang Mai in low price. The handmade products of local Chiang Mai are very famous which are refined, beautiful and unique. The local products such as bags, clothes, neckerchiefs and also the popular product Lanna lamp all are in Lanna Style. Some product was created by great idea they bring stone and put in the picture frame for beautiful and tidy pattern. The walk street has many kinds of local foods for traveler to taste its. On the walk street there are groups of musician, they sing Lanna songs; these songs are folk song. You will have real Chiang Mai experience and get a lot of new knowledge about Lanna Culture when you walk in Chiang Mai Walk Street.

The city nearly Chiang Mai is Chiang Rai, Chiang Rai not far from Chiang Mai you used time about 2 hours by car. The tourist will visit Chiang Rai and Chiang Mai in winner season. The tourist love Chiang Rai which are beautiful Temples, fresh atmosphere and kindness prople.

Read more information about Chiang Mai here:
-Chiang Mai One Day Trip
-Chiang Mai Zoo-Thailand
-Chiang Mai Countdown 2006

Click the map to see enlarge Chiang Mai Walk Street Map

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Chiang Mai Walk Street is located on Thaphae Gate through to Ratchadamnoen Road in Chiang Mai city, Thailand. The Chiang Mai Walk Street opens only in Sunday night.

The tourist can shop local product of Chiang Mai in low price. The handmade products of local Chiang Mai are very famous which are refined, beautiful and unique. The local products such as bags, clothes, neckerchiefs and also the popular product Lanna lamp all are in Lanna Style. Some product was created by great idea they bring stone and put in the picture frame for beautiful and tidy pattern. The walk street has many kinds of local foods for traveler to taste its. On the walk street there are groups of musician, they sing Lanna songs; these songs are folk song. You will have real Chiang Mai experience and get a lot of new knowledge about Lanna Culture when you walk in Chiang Mai Walk Street.

The city nearly Chiang Mai is Chiang Rai, Chiang Rai not far from Chiang Mai you used time about 2 hours by car. The tourist will visit Chiang Rai and Chiang Mai in winner season. The tourist love Chiang Rai which are beautiful Temples, fresh atmosphere and kindness prople.

Read more information about Chiang Mai here:
-Chiang Mai One Day Trip
-Chiang Mai Zoo-Thailand
-Chiang Mai Countdown 2006

Click the map to see enlarge Chiang Mai Walk Street Map

Read More...

In addition to Bangkok’s big Chatuchak weekend market, there are other retail locales with less savory reputations. The Nakhon Kasem market in Chinatown is still referred to colloquially as the Thieves’ Market due to its beginnings as a massive outlet for fencing stolen goods. Now you’re just as likely to find piles of odious crap like busted calculators or shredded tires, but there are also vendors who specialize in pre-aged antiques (i.e. antiques) and other fine imitation work.

Best buys include brassware, imitation antiques, old furniture, Chinese porcelains, and industrial supplies. The thieves market is located near Chinatown and is correctly called Nakhon Kasem. It is not spectacular, but still worth a visit.

And the Thieves’ Market runs every day, though it does get busier on weekends. I doubt the guy pictured above gets much busier, though.

Source: Gridskipper and World66

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In addition to Bangkok’s big Chatuchak weekend market, there are other retail locales with less savory reputations. The Nakhon Kasem market in Chinatown is still referred to colloquially as the Thieves’ Market due to its beginnings as a massive outlet for fencing stolen goods. Now you’re just as likely to find piles of odious crap like busted calculators or shredded tires, but there are also vendors who specialize in pre-aged antiques (i.e. antiques) and other fine imitation work.

Best buys include brassware, imitation antiques, old furniture, Chinese porcelains, and industrial supplies. The thieves market is located near Chinatown and is correctly called Nakhon Kasem. It is not spectacular, but still worth a visit.

And the Thieves’ Market runs every day, though it does get busier on weekends. I doubt the guy pictured above gets much busier, though.

Source: Gridskipper and World66

Read More...

This well-enclosed bay and fishing village surrounded by forested hills is one of the most beautiful beaches in Phuket.

Tranquil and calm, the pretty white sands of Kamala beckon most people by day, but if you're seeking more than sunbathing on a perfect beach, there are other options. Hire a long-tail boat and go snorkeling at the north end of the beach, explore the neighbouring beaches of Laem Sing or Surin, or take an island tour.

Local and friendly, Kamala represents the face of old Phuket with village markets, welcoming people and cosy restaurants. The Tsunami sadly caused extensive damage to this sleepy enclave, but the area is recovering fast. Fishing boats still line the shoreline, local cafes and bars are open for business and hotels unaffected by the wave are welcoming visitors.

With its quieter pace Kamala has, over the last few years, become a favoured spot for retirees and other longer-term visitors staying in small hotels, home and apartment rentals nestled around the village. On the headland to the south, are a number of luxury villa developments, with great views of Kamala Bay and beyond along its winding road.

Dining options are beginning to expand as more local restaurants open their doors. For stylish holiday dining, Surin Beach, just a 10 minute drive north, offers some of the island's most sophisticated upscale restaurants and shopping outlets.

Kamala is the kind of place to relax with friends in a small restaurant or local bar, so nightlife tends to be low-key. The main evening attraction is the celebrated Phuket Fantasea entertainment complex, with its themed dining and colourful nightly stage extravaganza. A vivid show of glittering dance routines, fantastic magic acts, music and, yes, elephants that make for a spectacle not easily forgotten. If you're looking for something more lively Patong's nightlife is only a 10 minutes drive south.

source: Phuket.com

Read More...

This well-enclosed bay and fishing village surrounded by forested hills is one of the most beautiful beaches in Phuket.

Tranquil and calm, the pretty white sands of Kamala beckon most people by day, but if you're seeking more than sunbathing on a perfect beach, there are other options. Hire a long-tail boat and go snorkeling at the north end of the beach, explore the neighbouring beaches of Laem Sing or Surin, or take an island tour.

Local and friendly, Kamala represents the face of old Phuket with village markets, welcoming people and cosy restaurants. The Tsunami sadly caused extensive damage to this sleepy enclave, but the area is recovering fast. Fishing boats still line the shoreline, local cafes and bars are open for business and hotels unaffected by the wave are welcoming visitors.

With its quieter pace Kamala has, over the last few years, become a favoured spot for retirees and other longer-term visitors staying in small hotels, home and apartment rentals nestled around the village. On the headland to the south, are a number of luxury villa developments, with great views of Kamala Bay and beyond along its winding road.

Dining options are beginning to expand as more local restaurants open their doors. For stylish holiday dining, Surin Beach, just a 10 minute drive north, offers some of the island's most sophisticated upscale restaurants and shopping outlets.

Kamala is the kind of place to relax with friends in a small restaurant or local bar, so nightlife tends to be low-key. The main evening attraction is the celebrated Phuket Fantasea entertainment complex, with its themed dining and colourful nightly stage extravaganza. A vivid show of glittering dance routines, fantastic magic acts, music and, yes, elephants that make for a spectacle not easily forgotten. If you're looking for something more lively Patong's nightlife is only a 10 minutes drive south.

source: Phuket.com

Read More...

Soon, on the 22nd of March until the third of April to be exact, it is time again for the Bangkok Motor Show, the biggest and best in South East Asia.

Billed as "the greatest automotive show in Southeast Asia", this international motoring event attracts an estimated 1.7 million people to Bangkok's Trade and Convention Centre. Whether you have money to burn or are just happy to stick with your jalopy, it's a fascinating day out and a chance to see the latest advances in motoring technology.

The show features classic cars, bikes, sports mobiles and car audio inventions, as well as the Miss Motor Show Beauty Contest, an off-road training demonstration and an autosalon for that essential beautification. In addition, you can attend lectures, seminars and workshops on topical subjects like energy consumption, road safety and even improving your driving skills.

Bangkok is the biggest car producing city in South East Asia and one of the biggest in Asia. Often dubbed the “Detroit of Asia” it has all major car manufacturers in and around Bangkok producing cars here. This makes it the perfect place for a car exhibition shows. Its not just an exhibition, too but you can directly on the showfloor buy the exhibited cars.

source: Whats on When

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Soon, on the 22nd of March until the third of April to be exact, it is time again for the Bangkok Motor Show, the biggest and best in South East Asia.

Billed as "the greatest automotive show in Southeast Asia", this international motoring event attracts an estimated 1.7 million people to Bangkok's Trade and Convention Centre. Whether you have money to burn or are just happy to stick with your jalopy, it's a fascinating day out and a chance to see the latest advances in motoring technology.

The show features classic cars, bikes, sports mobiles and car audio inventions, as well as the Miss Motor Show Beauty Contest, an off-road training demonstration and an autosalon for that essential beautification. In addition, you can attend lectures, seminars and workshops on topical subjects like energy consumption, road safety and even improving your driving skills.

Bangkok is the biggest car producing city in South East Asia and one of the biggest in Asia. Often dubbed the “Detroit of Asia” it has all major car manufacturers in and around Bangkok producing cars here. This makes it the perfect place for a car exhibition shows. Its not just an exhibition, too but you can directly on the showfloor buy the exhibited cars.

source: Whats on When

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Kata Beach: A beuatiful and more family orientated beach on Phuket

The pleasant bay of Kata, just a few minutes south of Karon Beach, entices many with its white sands and clear waters.

The monsoon season of May-October can make for rough swimming conditions, but it's this time of year that the surfers come out. The south end of the beach is the best place to watch, or join in on, the surfing action. Rentals are available for those who leave their boards at home.

Late in the year as the waters turn calm, Kata bay becomes populated with beautiful yachts, which arrive from all over the region to compete in December's King's Cup Regatta, Asia's premier sailing event.

While Club Med takes up most of the beachfront, a shaded footpath along the road fronting the resort makes for a pleasant stroll. Continuing on through the village, walkers will find an abundance of shops to browse in, from souvenir and ready-to-wear outlets, to 7-11 and local mini-marts, to name brand fashion stores. There are also plenty of dive shops and tour operators to assist those looking to explore beyond the beach.

Steak and seafood seem to be the most common offerings of Kata's many restaurants. Most roadside restaurants display their selection of lobsters, tiger prawns and plump fish right in front of their shop for all to see - and for diners to handpick. There's no shortage of Thai restaurants, and for international fare there's Scandinavian, Tex-Mex, Indian and Italian places to choose from, just to name a few.

Among the hotels and bungalows available in Kata, Mom Tri's Boathouse boutique resort offers the most elegant option, not to mention an award-winning wine cellar at its restaurant.

More information is available on Kata Beach website. Click here to discover the Kata Beach Restaurants or here to find Hotels and accommodation.

Nightlife in Kata Beach Phuket

With the exception of the popular Easyriders Pub with its live, loud music - and a few pockets of beer bars - nightlife in Kata is mostly family-oriented and relaxed. So this is definitely the better place for families than Patong Beach (See last part of Beaches of Phuket on this blog). A string of open-air bars, restaurants and shops along Taina Rd attract the most visitors in the evening. Dino Park is a fun place to take the kids for a round of mini-golf, while its Jurassic-themed restaurant and roadside bar are good places to relax afterwards. Just watch out for the fire-breathing dragon.

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Kata Beach: A beuatiful and more family orientated beach on Phuket

The pleasant bay of Kata, just a few minutes south of Karon Beach, entices many with its white sands and clear waters.

The monsoon season of May-October can make for rough swimming conditions, but it's this time of year that the surfers come out. The south end of the beach is the best place to watch, or join in on, the surfing action. Rentals are available for those who leave their boards at home.

Late in the year as the waters turn calm, Kata bay becomes populated with beautiful yachts, which arrive from all over the region to compete in December's King's Cup Regatta, Asia's premier sailing event.

While Club Med takes up most of the beachfront, a shaded footpath along the road fronting the resort makes for a pleasant stroll. Continuing on through the village, walkers will find an abundance of shops to browse in, from souvenir and ready-to-wear outlets, to 7-11 and local mini-marts, to name brand fashion stores. There are also plenty of dive shops and tour operators to assist those looking to explore beyond the beach.

Steak and seafood seem to be the most common offerings of Kata's many restaurants. Most roadside restaurants display their selection of lobsters, tiger prawns and plump fish right in front of their shop for all to see - and for diners to handpick. There's no shortage of Thai restaurants, and for international fare there's Scandinavian, Tex-Mex, Indian and Italian places to choose from, just to name a few.

Among the hotels and bungalows available in Kata, Mom Tri's Boathouse boutique resort offers the most elegant option, not to mention an award-winning wine cellar at its restaurant.

More information is available on Kata Beach website. Click here to discover the Kata Beach Restaurants or here to find Hotels and accommodation.

Nightlife in Kata Beach Phuket

With the exception of the popular Easyriders Pub with its live, loud music - and a few pockets of beer bars - nightlife in Kata is mostly family-oriented and relaxed. So this is definitely the better place for families than Patong Beach (See last part of Beaches of Phuket on this blog). A string of open-air bars, restaurants and shops along Taina Rd attract the most visitors in the evening. Dino Park is a fun place to take the kids for a round of mini-golf, while its Jurassic-themed restaurant and roadside bar are good places to relax afterwards. Just watch out for the fire-breathing dragon.

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After a two-year absence from fighting, Nong Toom, the transsexual Thai boxer who had her life story told in the hit movie, Beautiful Boxer made a surprise and victorious return to the ring Sunday, February 26 to celebrate the opening of the new, state of the art Fairtex Muay Thai training facility and sports complex in North Pattaya.

Prior to the fight, Nong Toom swore to knock out her Japanese opponent within three rounds, but she conceded that the sexual reassignment surgery that made her a woman last year had taken its toll.

Nong Toom raises her glove after making a triumphant return to the ring at the new Faitex Sports Club, Pattaya, Feb 26.

“I dare say I’m unsure if I can beat him. The physical changes have taken their toll on me but it’s a matter of dignity. We both need the victory because I was a Muay Thai champion and the Japanese boxer cannot lose to a woman. I will show that even now that I am a woman, I’m still able to punch and kick.”
As things transpired, Toom won by unanimous decision after the three-round fight, leaving her rival with a cut near his eye from an elbow in the last round.
This coming June, Nong Toom, who works as a Muay Thai training advisor for women at the new Fairtex complex, plans another exhibition bout, this time in the US with a female opponent, Lucia Rijker, who portrayed the lethal Blue Bear in the smash movie ‘Million Dollar Baby’

source: Pattaya Mail

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After a two-year absence from fighting, Nong Toom, the transsexual Thai boxer who had her life story told in the hit movie, Beautiful Boxer made a surprise and victorious return to the ring Sunday, February 26 to celebrate the opening of the new, state of the art Fairtex Muay Thai training facility and sports complex in North Pattaya.

Prior to the fight, Nong Toom swore to knock out her Japanese opponent within three rounds, but she conceded that the sexual reassignment surgery that made her a woman last year had taken its toll.

Nong Toom raises her glove after making a triumphant return to the ring at the new Faitex Sports Club, Pattaya, Feb 26.

“I dare say I’m unsure if I can beat him. The physical changes have taken their toll on me but it’s a matter of dignity. We both need the victory because I was a Muay Thai champion and the Japanese boxer cannot lose to a woman. I will show that even now that I am a woman, I’m still able to punch and kick.”
As things transpired, Toom won by unanimous decision after the three-round fight, leaving her rival with a cut near his eye from an elbow in the last round.
This coming June, Nong Toom, who works as a Muay Thai training advisor for women at the new Fairtex complex, plans another exhibition bout, this time in the US with a female opponent, Lucia Rijker, who portrayed the lethal Blue Bear in the smash movie ‘Million Dollar Baby’

source: Pattaya Mail

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Trekking around Chiang Mai and Thailand’s North: The home of the hilltribes

Thailand’s north is a gorgeous place where lushly vegetated mountains rise majestically from the earth – the tropical tail end of the Himalayan chain. For some mysterious reason mountains were made to be climbed. There seems to be an innate desire to struggle to peaks and look down on creation as if we were God almighty. When you are at a great height, taking in vast areas of creation in a single glance, the world, for a fleeting moment, belongs to you alone. In Thailand’s north, you can do just that, with the added bonus that along the way, you can rest overnight with Thailand’s hilltribe people. There are several different hilltribes, including the Akha, Meo, Lisu and Lahu – all with their own unique traditional lifestyle. These people migrated from Southern China into what until relatively recently was uninhabited territory less than two centuries ago, and set up shop as subsistence farmers.

Treks can run from two days to a week or more, as you hike through the jungle pathways on foot, by elephant (a daunting prospect at first), and by bamboo river raft, breathing fresh air, watching abundant wildlife and tiring your limbs, until you come upon the welcoming hilltribe village that you will call home for the night.

An evening with a Thai hilltribe is an unforgettable experience. After your hike, the food tastes fantastic, and along with the villagers you settle sit around the fire, singing songs and watching traditional dances – be prepared to do a number or two yourself from your home country.

After a few hours with these charming people, you may find yourself tempted to give up your career in accountancy, or whatever it is you do back home, shed yourself of all your possessions and live the simple life of honest hard work and a bowl of rice at the end of the day. Tempted, yes, but after a little reflection on the labours you have to put in for that rice bowl, you’ll probably opt to take home a few of the colourful handicrafts, and treasure your memories from the land of comfort from whence you came. Really, it’s better this way.

Trekking: Exploring the North of Thailand

Chiang Mai, in Thailand’s mountainous north was the original home of hilltribe trekking, but in recent years a few other places have gotten into the act. Chiang Mai itself is a relaxed city of about one million people, and the springboard to some great trekking locations, including Doi Inthanon National Park, which is the host to Thailand’s tallest peak at 2700 meters. The second city of trekking is the more somnambulant Chiang Rai, a bit further north. Both cities have very good airports and regular flights from Bangkok and elsewhere.

One young upstart in Thailand’s trekking world is Nan, northeast of Chiang Mai, and the coldest spot in Thailand (which is nonetheless pretty darn warm if it snows in your hometown). New luxury hotels have been popping up here recently, yet many of the hilltribes in this area are new to visitors – so it’s possible to enjoy the best of both worlds.

Also becoming popular is the charming little town of Pai, which has developed into a Bohemian arts center for disillusioned hippie folk from both Thailand and abroad. Some of the trekking agencies here actually give you a 50% refund if you see any other foreigners on your trek, so isolation is the thing here – when you aren’t grooving to the jazz tunes in the local arts pubs.

source: Thailand Grand Festival Website

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Trekking around Chiang Mai and Thailand’s North: The home of the hilltribes

Thailand’s north is a gorgeous place where lushly vegetated mountains rise majestically from the earth – the tropical tail end of the Himalayan chain. For some mysterious reason mountains were made to be climbed. There seems to be an innate desire to struggle to peaks and look down on creation as if we were God almighty. When you are at a great height, taking in vast areas of creation in a single glance, the world, for a fleeting moment, belongs to you alone. In Thailand’s north, you can do just that, with the added bonus that along the way, you can rest overnight with Thailand’s hilltribe people. There are several different hilltribes, including the Akha, Meo, Lisu and Lahu – all with their own unique traditional lifestyle. These people migrated from Southern China into what until relatively recently was uninhabited territory less than two centuries ago, and set up shop as subsistence farmers.

Treks can run from two days to a week or more, as you hike through the jungle pathways on foot, by elephant (a daunting prospect at first), and by bamboo river raft, breathing fresh air, watching abundant wildlife and tiring your limbs, until you come upon the welcoming hilltribe village that you will call home for the night.

An evening with a Thai hilltribe is an unforgettable experience. After your hike, the food tastes fantastic, and along with the villagers you settle sit around the fire, singing songs and watching traditional dances – be prepared to do a number or two yourself from your home country.

After a few hours with these charming people, you may find yourself tempted to give up your career in accountancy, or whatever it is you do back home, shed yourself of all your possessions and live the simple life of honest hard work and a bowl of rice at the end of the day. Tempted, yes, but after a little reflection on the labours you have to put in for that rice bowl, you’ll probably opt to take home a few of the colourful handicrafts, and treasure your memories from the land of comfort from whence you came. Really, it’s better this way.

Trekking: Exploring the North of Thailand

Chiang Mai, in Thailand’s mountainous north was the original home of hilltribe trekking, but in recent years a few other places have gotten into the act. Chiang Mai itself is a relaxed city of about one million people, and the springboard to some great trekking locations, including Doi Inthanon National Park, which is the host to Thailand’s tallest peak at 2700 meters. The second city of trekking is the more somnambulant Chiang Rai, a bit further north. Both cities have very good airports and regular flights from Bangkok and elsewhere.

One young upstart in Thailand’s trekking world is Nan, northeast of Chiang Mai, and the coldest spot in Thailand (which is nonetheless pretty darn warm if it snows in your hometown). New luxury hotels have been popping up here recently, yet many of the hilltribes in this area are new to visitors – so it’s possible to enjoy the best of both worlds.

Also becoming popular is the charming little town of Pai, which has developed into a Bohemian arts center for disillusioned hippie folk from both Thailand and abroad. Some of the trekking agencies here actually give you a 50% refund if you see any other foreigners on your trek, so isolation is the thing here – when you aren’t grooving to the jazz tunes in the local arts pubs.

source: Thailand Grand Festival Website

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Adventure takes many forms: a new relationship or job, sushi for the first time, or even a walk through an L.A. slum at 2am on a Saturday night – all qualify.

Webster’s dictionary defines adventure as “an exciting or remarkable experience.” It’s when we break out of our daily routine and dare to take on a new challenge, boldly going into territory that is unfamiliar to us.

But most people, when they think of adventure, think of travel. And though pretty much the whole world has been explored before by other people (with Marco Polo setting the benchmark several hundred years ago), what matters is that it is your discovery. Adventure travel is a highly personal thing and what it teaches you about the vast world that surrounds you and its relationship to you is what makes it both worthwhile and essential.

This is probably why adventure travel keeps growing in popularity. In a world gone wrong, cluttered with technology, self-interested politicians, bureaucracy, greed and numerous other complications, it is crucial to get back to the basics of life and to set personal challenges that bring out the noble savage in us.

So remove yourself to another place, with strange people and customs, follow your nose, trust your instincts, and find a part of yourself you’d almost forgotten.

Thailand is an ideal location to live out these dreams – or alternate realities. With more than 25,000 square kilometers of national park land, islands, mountains, and a welcoming people, new and enlivening experiences are waiting for you to live them out.

Though there are endless adventures available here, two of the more popular possibilities involve going as high and as low as you can.

Scuba Diving: The Amphibian Within

There’s no getting around it. It’s programmed into our DNA that we are creatures of the sea, with a deep-seated desire to return to it. Meander aimlessly on thoughtful walk some lazy Sunday and your feet, of their own accord, will inevitably take you to the water – a lake, a pond, an ocean or a very large puddle – whatever is closest. We look out and yearn to return to our roots. Thanks to Jacques Cousteau, it is now possible, for a short time anyway, to return to the sea completely – for as long as the air in the tank lasts.

Thailand, with its countless beaches, coral reefs and modern dive schools is a popular spot to learn to scuba dive. Thousands of proud new divers earn their PADI international dive certificates every year.

It can be a bit scary at first – our instincts also tell us that we can’t breathe under water – but once you master the basic technicalities, there’s no experience like it. You have freedoms undreamed of by land dwellers. You are weightless, and can go left, right, forward backwards, up and down – and you are surrounded by colourful fish and plants. It’s another world down there.

But like anything worthwhile, it does take a bit of work and discipline to make your first dive. Over the course of a week or so, you take a step by step open water course to ensure maximum safety. You’ll start out in a classroom, studying buoyancy and pressure – you even have homework and exams to do (What? Homework at the beach?!!) This is combined with practice, starting in shallow water, learning to use the equipment getting comfortable with the idea – and soon you’re heading off to the open water by boat, working your way up to dives as deep as 18 meters. In less than a week, you are granted your certificate and can dive anywhere in the world unaccompanied – the beginning of a beautiful new friendship with the other two-thirds of the planet.

source: Thailand Grand Festival Website

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